The New York Giants’ (4-13) disastrous season came to an end on Sunday as they were defeated by the (7-10) Washington Football Team 22-7.
The Giants not only tied a franchise record for losses in a season, but they also set a franchise record by losing their final six games by double digits. In addition, their minus 158-point differential was the worst in the NFC.
The 2021 season is arguably the most disappointing season in the history of the Giants franchise, and Sunday’s game was a microcosm of the season.
New York’s offense was once again pathetic, as Jake Fromm struggled in his second career start. He completed just 15-of-31 passes for 103 yards. He did throw his first career touchdown in the fourth quarter to Darius Slayton, but threw two interceptions, including an interception on the final play of the game.
His interception on the final play of the game was a fitting way for this abysmal season to end.
Head coach Joe Judge has stated numerous times that despite the team’s record, his players have not given up. However, there were instances on Sunday where players seemed to not give it their all.
There was Kenny Golladay not laying out to catch a deep pass. And then there was Washington running back Antonio Gibson who literally walked in the last five yards on his 18-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter to extend the lead to 19-7.
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In the second quarter, Judge showed that he had no confidence in his players as he did two consecutive quarterback sneaks from their on two- and four-yard line in the second quarter.
Judge said after the game that he wanted to avoid getting a safety as they did last week against the Bears and gain a few yards to put them in a better position to punt the ball.
New York Giants end miserable season
The bottom line is, the Giants were once again not competitive as they have been in the previous five games. Even the defense which has been solid for parts of the season was overwhelmed on Sunday as they allowed Washington to rush for 226 yards.
The only thing positive to take away from Sunday’s game is that no player suffered an injury that could jeopardize their availability for the start of the 2022 season.
New York now heads into one of the most important off-seasons in the franchise’s history. It should be announced at any moment that general manager Dave Gettleman will retire or be relieved of his duties. The Giants are expected to interview several candidates for the job, but assistant GM Kevin Abrams seems to be the favorite.
Whoever is named the new GM will have a tall task in front of them to fix a franchise that has a record of 22-59 over the last five seasons.